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How Online Education Works

The odds are that you've heard a good bit about online education and what it can do for you. By offering you the chance to go to school on your own schedule and still earn a degree that will take you places, it makes sense that it's becoming the fastest growing type of education in the country – almost all major colleges now offer online classes of some kind.

The question is “how does it work?” It can be a little confusing, and the days of just getting your classwork mailed or emailed to you are long gone. Today, online education is compelling, effective, and interesting. Depending on the college and the program you enroll in, you can expect a wide range of different components to make up your online education.

Here are some of the things you may encounter during your online education:

  • The Basics – You'll get assigned classwork, and while you may have a due date associated with each assignment, it's much more flexible than traditional education will be. You'll be able to complete it when you have time, so long as you meet very basic deadlines.
  • Virtual Classrooms – Many programs have started using virtual classrooms that create a centralized hub for students. It's where most of the work will be given.
  • Video Chat or Seminars – Some programs use pre-recorded lectures, while others use live chat with a professor. You'll watch the video and participate in discussions about what you're learning, instead of just reading endless walls of text. Often, animation and other video aids may be used as well.
  • Forums – The class forum is often a major part of the educational process online. Here, questions are posed and discussions are had using a traditional online forum/message board setup. Grades are often derived in part from participation on these boards, which are the digital equivalent of class discussions.
  • Hands On – In the event that you do take a class that requires hands-on training, you'll likely have to pursue a blended type of education. You'll complete coursework online, then have to complete your hands-on training in person at the school or at a nearby facility the school recognizes. For instance, learning a medical profession could mean completing some clinical work in a local hospital. Different schools have varying requirements where this is concerned.
  • Exams – You'll still take exams to prove that you're competent in the area you're studying. The big difference is, of course, that these exams are handled online. They'll be an important part of the educational process, however, and are just as weighted as they are in real life.s

This should give you an idea as to what to expect when you enroll in online education. It's a viable option for anyone, and could deliver the kind of life-changing results you need to move your career and your happiness forward.

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